JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

January 1988

Dear Friend:

Thank you for your recent inquiry concerning the origin of the races.

The Bible plainly teaches that God made of one blood all the nations of men that dwell on the earth (Acts 17:26). It also tells us that Eve was the mother of all living (Gen. 3:20).

Therefore, God's Church teaches that God created Eve with the capability of producing children having the varied characteristics that are now manifested in the different races. There must have been great diversity in her offspring.

Normally, individuals of similar characteristics are attracted to each other. The children and grandchildren of Adam and Eve would have naturally separated into families of racially similar people and, as they continued to marry within their own groups, distinct racial traits would have become established.

God tells us that He separated the families of man and decreed the boundaries of their dwelling places (Deut. 32:8; Acts 17:26). Natural barriers, such as mountain ranges and oceans, would have served to keep the racial families apart and prevent amalgamation.

Thus, God intended that there be different races and He caused them to develop. Nonetheless, He considers all humans to be His children through Adam and intends for all who repent and overcome to ultimately receive sonship in His Kingdom (I Tim. 2:4; II Pet. 3:9; and Rev. 21:3-7).

Thank you for again your question. If we can be of further service, please let us know.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT